2003 Explorer Front End Popping Noise

[hawknose]

My 2003 2WD Explorer front end suspension makes a popping noise when turning in parking lots/driveways at a very low speed. Dealer says I need new front wheel bearings. Explorer has 183,000 miles and has never had them replaced. I do not seem to have any other noises that bearings usually make. Any suggestions out there?

 

[nameisnana]

The wheel hub usually makes a vibrating noise at highway speed.

Popping sounds when turning are usually ball joints and suspension parts. If you've never replace the ball joints and sway bar linkage, you might wanna take a look at that.

In fact, without taking anything off, a quick look behind the wheel will give you your answer. The rubber bushings on your ball joints are probably disintegrated.

 

[03WIExplorerLtd]

I replaced the sway bar end links in my 03, as I popping/clunking at slow speeds as well.
Just replaced the sway bar bushing yesterday (easier than expected). They were replaced 40k ago, but they were installed incorrectly and started to prematurely wear.

No squeaking/clunking/popping noises anymore. My truck doesnt sound like a late nineties Chevy Blazer anymore